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Hello @Guitargeezer
I’ll tell you what I know about the guitars that you listed. I will disclaim that I don’t own any of these guitars, but I have tried them in stores pre-pandemic (meaning a long time ago).
Gibson J-45 Studio. Gibson’s “Studio” models are concept pieces. They are usually less adorned to make them a little more affordable. The concept is that these models are the same as their “stage” counterparts, but are meant to be workhorses in the recording studio. Since they’ll be in the studio, they don’t need to be as “showy” as the “on stage” models so it’s basically the same guitar minus any cool inlay, or neat binding, or gloss finish. You basically get a “plain Jane” looking guitar but you wouldn’t be able to tell it apart from the same model guitar that you see on stage when you hear it recorded. Having said that, the Gibson J-45 is an iconic guitar played by an endless number of famous musicians. As a slope-shouldered dreadnought, it is the largest guitar on your list, but I also think it’s the boldest sounding. This is a great strumming guitar and fits you if you are into pop and rock and you’re looking for that sound that hear a lot on record albums.
Martin GPCPA4. Martin’s GPC body shape is the same as Taylor’s Grand Auditorium body shape. I’ve literally taken a Martin GP guitar and put in it a Taylor GA case and it fit like a glove. Although the body shapes are practically identical, each guitar possesses their own iconic respective tones. Interesting that you listed the guitars in this order because it sits in the middle size wise on your list. This is a great guitar if you are a singer-songwriter type player who likes to go to Open Mics. It’s a great guitar for finger picking and strumming and is probably the most versatile on your list.
Martin 000-17. Martin’s triple O body size is smaller and thinner than the guitars listed above. This model guitar, from what I remember, has a more “woody” tone and would be ideal (among the three) if you are more of a “blues-y” type player. I think it’s a better finger picking guitar than the others, but you can definitely still strum on this guitar.
If memory serves me correctly, I believe the GPCPA4 has rosewood back and sides, whereas the other two have mahogany back and sides. I don’t know if you are particular to these woods, but it may be a factor in your decision. I believe they all have spruce tops.
You asked about Zagar guitars and I admit that I have not had much experience with that brand. I’ve tried one Zagar guitar many years back and I remember not being very impressed. I know that they make claims to be the best playable guitars around, but I’ve also seen video reviews saying that their playable claim is just as good as any other brand guitar with a good setup. That’s about all I know and I’m sure that there are others who may be able to give a better review than I just did.
Hopefully this helps.
